Home invasions are a terrifying prospect, but the odds of being a victim are relatively low. With 2.5 million burglaries in the US every year, only around 1.6 million are home invasions. However, it’s always better to be prepared. Here are some tips on how to survive a home invasion:

Make Yourself a Hard Target

The first rule for surviving a home invasion is to make yourself a hard target. In the world of security, ‘hard’ targets are those that have taken measures to protect themselves or make an attack difficult or time-consuming.

Home Security Measures

• Leave a light on: Even when everyone is asleep or the home is empty, leaving a light on in one of the public areas of the home can deter burglars.
• Strong locks: Most burglars use the front door when breaking into a home, so a sturdy front door with an equally sturdy lock is your first line of defense.
• Security lighting: Burglars are less likely to strike at a well-illuminated home where they might easily be spotted.
• Security systems: Only half of US homes have security systems, leaving un-alarmed homes with a 300% greater chance of being broken into. Security systems often include loud alarms and a feature that automatically dispatches a security patrol or contacts police for a fast response.
• Dogs: Dogs are great deterrents. Even a small, yapping Chihuahua can serve as a deterrent, making loud noise that can bring unwanted attention to an intruder.

If Intruders Get Inside the House

If intruders manage to get inside the house, it’s time to think fast and be prepared.

• Have a plan: You and your family should know exactly what you’re going to do if someone breaks into your home.
• Establish a safe room: If possible, a safe room should be established in the house. This would be a room that is very difficult and time-consuming to break into, and that has some way of contacting the authorities.
• Avoid a fight: Trying to repel home invaders can not only get you killed, but could actually land you in jail if you open fire and kill or severely injure one of the burglars.
• Exit strategy: If your home doesn’t have a good safe room available, exits via windows or back doors should be well rehearsed.
• Cooperation: If you’re surprised and have no way to flee, cooperation is the next best option.

Home Defense Arsenal

When it comes to a home defense arsenal, there’s a variety of choices.

• 9mm pistol: A 9mm pistol is an excellent home defense tool, as it is incredibly easy to operate and learn how to use.
• Shotgun: A shotgun is also less likely to penetrate through a wall and place your family at risk from wayward shots.
• Non-lethal weapons: If you are not comfortable owning a lethal weapon, consider owning a non-lethal weapon such as a TASER, stun gun, pepper spray, or pepper gun. 

Conclusion

Remember, fighting should be a last resort, but if you have to fight, it’s important to have the right tool for the job. Valuables can be replaced, your life can’t. Stay safe and stay prepared.